Unprecedented economic growth. Increasing numbers of tourists. A new-look city with a more affluent population. Macao has transformed over the past 20 years. We look back at what’s changed in the SAR since its birth on 20 December, 1999.
The next 20 years and further into the future: how will Macao change and develop?
Prepare for more tourists to hit Macao over the coming years. In the past two decades, the city has become a hub for visitors – and heritage projects to protect its history – but the future looks even busier, say the experts.
Since 1999, Macao’s gastronomic scene has been boosted by a supernova of international chefs and cuisines. The challenge now is for locals to preserve the Macanese culinary heritage while passing on something new for the next generation to relish.
From paintings and ceramics to music and literature, Macao has become a hotbed for art and artistic talents. The future paints a pretty picture too, say the creatives, as there’s a collective ‘will to put us on the world map as a great art city’.
Macao’s integrated entertainment resorts have proved to be a major cog in the economic success of the SAR over the past two decades – and the city’s gaming industry is expected to keep reinventing itself in the years to come to entice tourists and more investment.
This year’s unveiling of the outline plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area – and subsequent support measures – underscores China’s commitment when it comes to this important regional integration, which is years in the making.
For hundreds of years, Macao has played a vital role as a bridge between China and Portuguese-speaking countries. This was strengthened post-1999 and there are now ongoing moves to develop the ties further.
Despite the obvious success the gaming dollar has brought to Macao, its economy is on the verge of change. There’s a new financial model brewing in the city – and it’s a globally minded one.
Political, legal, media and other high profile representatives of Macao and across the world talk exclusively to ‘Macao Magazine’, giving their thoughts on the past two decades and the future of our city.